Wildlife

Polecat

Polecats are solitary and predominantly nocturnal weasel-like animals, where the males are quite obviously larger and heavier than the females. They produce a strong musky scent from anal glands when threatened, and this is also used to mark their territories. These streamlined predators can lock their jaws together so tightly it can be near impossible to prise them apart. Ferrets are the domesticated descendants of the polecat.

Springwatch

Living Britain

Polecat kittens in their underground dens.

In late spring, polecat kittens are born in underground dens which they won't leave until late May when they are two months old. Despite the reputation for smelling like skunks, female polecats are fastidious cleaners and the family groups are very social.